Dhaka Requests Clarification from New Delhi Ahead of August 5 Event, Says Political Activities by Former Prime Minister from Indian Soil Could Affect Bilateral Relations

A fresh diplomatic issue has emerged between India and Bangladesh after Dhaka sought New Delhi's official position regarding former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's reported participation in a virtual media event scheduled to take place from New Delhi on August 5. The date coincides with the second anniversary of the political upheaval that led to the collapse of Hasina's government in 2024, making the proposed appearance particularly sensitive.

The interim government in Bangladesh has expressed concern that any political activity by the former prime minister from Indian territory could influence bilateral relations. While emphasizing its commitment to maintaining strong ties with India, Dhaka has requested New Delhi to clarify its position before the scheduled event.

The development comes at a time when both countries are working to strengthen cooperation in trade, connectivity, energy, security and regional development, making the handling of this issue diplomatically significant.

Bangladesh Seeks Official Clarification

Addressing a media briefing, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam confirmed that Bangladesh has formally sought clarification from India regarding Sheikh Hasina's reported appearance.

According to media reports, Hasina is expected to virtually participate in an event organised by the Foreign Correspondents' Club of South Asia (FCC South Asia) in New Delhi.

The programme is expected to include several prominent participants associated with Bangladesh, including:

• Sajeeb Wazed Joy, Sheikh Hasina's son.

• Former Education Minister Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury Nowfel.

• Bangladesh Human Rights Watch General Secretary Mahammad Ali Siddique.

Dhaka stated that while it respects India's sovereignty, it hopes that Indian territory will not be used for activities that could create political instability in Bangladesh.

Concerns Over Political Activities from Indian Territory

Bangladesh reiterated its long-standing position that individuals facing legal proceedings or criminal convictions should not use foreign territory to conduct political campaigns or activities directed against Bangladesh.

According to the foreign ministry, the issue is not limited to Sheikh Hasina personally but concerns the broader principle of preventing political activities by individuals whom Bangladesh considers fugitives or convicted persons.

Officials believe such activities could complicate diplomatic engagement and create unnecessary political tensions between the two neighbouring countries.

At the same time, Dhaka emphasized that it remains committed to strengthening relations with India and hopes the issue can be addressed through diplomatic dialogue.

India and Bangladesh Continue Diplomatic Engagement

The issue surfaced alongside ongoing diplomatic discussions between the two countries.

India's High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Dinesh Trivedi, held talks with Humayun Kabir, Foreign Affairs Adviser to Bangladesh's interim administration.

According to official statements, both sides reviewed various aspects of bilateral relations, including:

• Trade and investment.

• Connectivity projects.

• Development cooperation.

• People-to-people exchanges.

• Regional cooperation.

The Indian High Commission stated that New Delhi remains committed to working constructively with Bangladesh to advance shared developmental goals and strengthen bilateral cooperation.

The meeting indicated that despite political differences over Sheikh Hasina's status, both governments continue to engage on broader strategic and economic issues.

Security Heightened Ahead of August 5 Anniversary

Bangladesh has significantly strengthened security arrangements ahead of August 5, the anniversary of the student-led movement that resulted in Sheikh Hasina leaving office.

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed confirmed that:

• Law enforcement agencies have been placed on high alert.

• Additional security personnel have been deployed across sensitive locations.

• Measures have been taken to prevent violence and maintain public order.

• Authorities are prepared to respond to any disruption.

The government said the objective is to ensure that commemorative events and public gatherings remain peaceful throughout the country.

Background: Political Upheaval in Bangladesh

Sheikh Hasina served as Bangladesh's Prime Minister for several consecutive terms before her government was removed following widespread protests during 2024.

The demonstrations, largely driven by students and civil society groups, escalated into one of the country's biggest political crises in decades.

Following weeks of unrest:

• Sheikh Hasina left Bangladesh on August 5, 2024.

• An interim administration assumed power.

• The Awami League was subsequently banned through executive action under anti-terror legislation.

• Bangladesh entered a new political transition aimed at institutional reforms.

The events continue to shape the country's domestic politics and foreign policy.

Legal Challenges Continue Against Sheikh Hasina

Since leaving office, Sheikh Hasina has faced multiple legal proceedings initiated by Bangladesh's interim authorities.

In November 2025, Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal sentenced her to death in absentia after finding her guilty in connection with alleged crimes against humanity related to the government's handling of the 2024 protests.

She has consistently rejected the allegations, describing the cases as politically motivated and denying all wrongdoing.

Her legal status remains one of the most contentious issues in Bangladesh's political landscape.

Extradition Request Still Under Consideration

Bangladesh has repeatedly requested India to extradite Sheikh Hasina.

New Delhi has acknowledged receiving the extradition request and has stated that the matter remains under legal examination.

India has not publicly indicated whether or when a decision will be taken.

Given the sensitivity of the issue, any future decision is expected to have diplomatic, legal and political implications for both countries.

Strategic Importance of India-Bangladesh Relations

Despite recent tensions, India and Bangladesh continue to share one of South Asia's most important bilateral relationships.

Cooperation between the two countries covers multiple sectors, including:

• Bilateral trade.

• Border management.

• Counter-terrorism cooperation.

• Energy connectivity.

• Rail and road infrastructure.

• Inland waterways.

• Digital connectivity.

• Regional security under BIMSTEC and other forums.

Both governments have repeatedly emphasized that maintaining stability and cooperation serves the long-term interests of both nations.

Regional and Diplomatic Implications

Political analysts believe the controversy surrounding Sheikh Hasina's reported virtual appearance could temporarily increase diplomatic sensitivity but is unlikely to fundamentally alter India-Bangladesh relations.

The manner in which both governments manage the issue through diplomatic channels will be closely watched by regional observers.

The episode also highlights the increasingly complex relationship between domestic political developments and regional diplomacy in South Asia.

Outlook

The coming days are expected to be significant for India-Bangladesh relations as Dhaka awaits New Delhi's clarification regarding Sheikh Hasina's reported participation in the August 5 event. While Bangladesh has voiced concerns over the potential political implications, both countries have reaffirmed their intention to preserve constructive bilateral engagement.

With the extradition request still under legal consideration and security tightened ahead of the anniversary of the 2024 political transition, policymakers are expected to proceed cautiously to prevent any deterioration in diplomatic relations.